Planet Swans ArchivesDe Vries is in line for an early return to the Swansea City line up against Birmingham at the Liberty tonight although the smart money remains on Dimi keeping his place in the starting line up after a string of impressive displays.
It was against QPR a month ago tonight that Dorus was stretchered off amid fears that he would be out for six to eight weeks but the Dutchman has recovered much earlier than expected and has a chance of a recall this evening.
“I’ve been training for over seven days in full contact and I’m not afraid of anything — and I’m diving into things just like I used to,” De Vries told the Evening Post.
“I was due to be out for seven to eight weeks, but it has been just over four weeks so to be available in half that time is great for me.
“I have taken it step by step and now I am ready.
“The injury was a major blow but I knew I would be back soon.
“I am happy Dimi came in because you need strength in that department — it’s good to have him and Artur around.
“Dimi has done very well for us while Artur is only 19 and is a good prospect.
“Competition is not something that affects me. I have plenty of reasons to keep myself focused.
“It’s frustrating when you have played 75 games in a row and all of a sudden you are not playing because of an injury that could have been prevented.
“But I want to play now, even if it means wearing the mask. I have to play with it on for a while, although the boys say I look better with it on.
“I want to throw it away already even though it gives my face added protection.
“It really doesn’t matter as a keeper who you are playing as every game is different,” said de Vries.
“As a keeper you have to stay 100 per cent focused. If you deal with one cross or 100 crosses, your job stays the same.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re playing Birmingham or Horsham, a keeper should always concentrate on the game, not individual players.
“They will probably attack more than other sides and it will be a big test, but we will be ready for it.
“While I was injured I had to watch from the stand but it was great to see the boys play well and get some good results.
“We have put together some pleasing performances — apart from the Watford defeat in the cup — and we are on a good run of form right now.”
